SLU study aids to find cure for Alzheimer’s disease

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(KTVI) - Finding a cure for Alzheimer's disease is the quest. Dr. Maurice Redden, Assistant Professor of Geriatric Psychiatry at SLU Hospital, joins us with news of a drug and study.

MERK developed a drug MK-8931 intended to break down plaque.

BACE is A key enzyme in the production of amyloid β peptide. Evidence suggests that inhibiting BACE decreases the production of amyloid β peptide and may therefore reduce amyloid plaque formation and modify Alzheimer`s disease progression.

MK-8931 is a BACE inhibitor.

Saint Louis University will enroll participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer`s disease in a new research study examining the efficacy and safety of an investigational drug known as MK-8931 in treating the illness.

The study is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind Phase II/III clinical trial designed to determine how safe and effective MK-8931 is at two oral doses, 12 mg and 40 mg. Patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer`s disease will receive the drug or a placebo.

If you know of someone who is able to run a screen with the study number, call (314) 977-4900.